Denim Daze | Free People Chambray Shift Two Ways

Any good budgeter worth her coupons knows an item that pulls double-duty is always the best bet… which is one of the reasons I became instantly obsessed with Free People’s Season of Chambray Shift Dress. But only one. Seriously, I went a little nuts when I saw it. The easy trapeze shape can be belted or worn loose, and the thick denim material is sure to last season after season. As soon as I saw its picture online, I imagined its plunging neckline going bare for a night out or layered over a grey turtleneck for a winter day at work. #outfitcrush

I stopped what I was doing and immediately tried it on the moment it came in the mail… and I have worn it multiple times since. That was last week; the addiction is real. While I know this dress will be perfect in all seasons, it simply isn’t time for turtlenecks. (Even though I really, really wish it was.) I decided to style this look for two outings more presently relevant: the weekend and work.

This outfit is perfect for afternoon shopping or evening drinks. I love, love, love how the vertical line from this tie-neck blouse makes this outfit look so long and lean. And this stone cuff mixes in perfectly with my favorite vintage bracelets; I’ve been wearing it with a hand-me-down turquoise piece every day since we took this photo.

While this could easily translate to plenty of office environments, I work in technology, which comes with a traditionally casual dress code. To wear this dress to work, I would change the top to something more casual and swap out heels for a flat boot.

Let’s stop for a moment and talk about these pockets. This dress features two pockets actually large enough to fit necessary items like my phone. That’s right, ladies. We were finally given pockets that can be useful. Purses can be optional. All hail the pocket.

Warmer than bare legs but cooler than leggings, these plaid socks are such a cute way to tiptoe into autumn. They pull up even more to be thigh-high length. It’s like a hybrid between sexy and comfortable, and I am all over it.

Don’t forget: St. Louis just got its first Free People boutique, located in the Saint Louis Galleria. I stopped by the opening last week and was pretty obsessed with the store decor and displays. Visitors were greeted with adorable tote bags and light refreshments, obviously in cute packaging. The intimates selection of the store had the most unique vibe, and every inch of the shop was covered in beautiful, delicate hangings. Sale-lovers can rejoice knowing the discounted area is large (and I already found an amazing frock knocked down nearly 75%.)

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I’m Julia Ann, a full-time writer, DIY-er, and all-around cat fanatic from St. Louis. I’ve been sharing my best outfits and worst jokes on this blog since 2012. Follow along as my husband and I work to perfect our first home and navigate our infertility diagnosis through IVF.